The Blog @ CDL

2010 Una Bella Sera - Sunday, April 25th

2010-04-08T13:53:00.001-07:00

We are thrilled to participate once again at the amazing design showcase - Una Bella Sera - hosted by two very talented ladies, Crystal Lequang and Nicole Ha, along with a bunch of top-tiered vendors.

I can't wait to see what is in store for this event! I think it will touch upon all our senses.... Come join us and make sure to register.

2010 Bride's Choice Award

2010-02-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

Cards de Luxe is honored and excited to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Award from WeddingWire.com, a highly popular and valuable wedding planning resource on the web!

The annual award recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry as reviewed by newlyweds who have utilized our services in the past.

We would like to graciously thank our clients and vendors for your support and encouragement! We look forward to a great 2010!

As Seen In... Today's Bride

2009-10-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

A bit overdued but we'd still like to express... that we had a blast, back in April, when we were invited to collaborate with a design team for the Lavish and Lovely photoshoot for Today's Bride magazine. We didn't get to see the photos until the issue's release in July. But it was worth the wait!

We designed stationery for two tablescapes - Rustic Charm and Island Chic. Each table had its own endearing qualities.

RUSTIC CHARM
color palette: kiwi green, butter yellow, peach, warm wood tones
photographed by The Memory Journalists

ISLAND CHIC
color palette: tropical greens, vibrant orange and yellows, gold
photographed by Arrowood Photography

Many thanks to Christine and her staff for organizing a great day! It was a pleasure working with you on this shoot.

Real Wedding: Tiffany + Eric

2009-10-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

We regret neglecting this blog over the summer as things got busy around here. With the summer gone and many of our couples getting married, we have a backlog of some beautiful real weddings.

Here is one I never got to share from last year of Tiffany and Eric's fun, young and fresh courtyard estate wedding. They really went all out for their guests with a cigar bar, putting green, bocce ball, and a trampoline (!) to keep guests entertained and active.

ceremony: Saint Peter and Paul Church, San Francisco, CA
reception: Private Estate in Atherton
photographer: Ann Hamilton
stationery: Cards de Luxe

All images taken by Ann Hamilton.

The fire hydrant ice sculpture is a salute to Eric who is a firefighter.

Promises and Pearls | A Bridal Soiree | July 8th

2009-06-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

Don't miss Promises and Pearls - A Bridal Soiree with the Finest! A fantasic event designed by Michelle of { MB Wedding Design & Events } and Bev from { Especially Yours Chair Covers }. This year's theme will be intimate and reminisce classic elegance. Come soiree with the finest event professionals in the bay area!

Date: Wednesday, July 8
Time: 6pm - 9pm
Place: The Payne Mansion - 1409 Sutter Street, SF, CA
Space is limited and registration is required
http://www.promisesandpearls.com/

Event stationery and flyer designed by Cards de Luxe.

Promises and Pearls | Save the Date

2009-04-22T14:24:00.000-07:00

Cards de Luxe is honored to take part in this year's Promises and Pearls - a bridal soiree put on by my fabulous friend and event designer, Michelle of { MB Wedding Design & Events } and Bev from { Especially Yours Chair Covers }. It will be fun, chic, glamourous, with great ideas... And oh! you'll get to meet some of the industry's finest!

So, SAVE THE DATE to join us!... with more details to come....

Image designed by Cards de Luxe

Una Bella Sera: A World of Glamour | Asia Vignette

2009-04-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time mingling with some of the hottest vendors in the industry a week ago at Una Bella Sera. Crystal and Nicole did it again with an awesome display of lavish extravagance and exquisite details. It was definitely a feast for the eyes!

This year, each vignette was inspired by one of our seven continents. We had the honour to design stationeries for three very different continents - Asia, South America and Antarctica.

Below is our feature on Asia... Asia is a suggestive outdoor wedding ceremony inspired by Asian botanicals representing the four seasons: plum flower (spring), orchid (summer), chrysanthemum (autumn) and bamboo (winter)

Event Designer: Crystal LeQuang of Amazae Special Events
Floral Designer: Nicole Ha Designs
Lighting and Drapery: Enhanced lighting
Rentals: Cort Event Furnishing, Hartmann Studios, Wild Flower Linens
Caterer: Le's Kitchen
Stationery: Cards de Luxe, Paper Orchid Stationary
Specialty: Asian Import Store
Photographers: Jerry Yoon and Erin Beach

All four botanical elements are present in Asia's invitation.

We'll follow up with posts from the other vignettes!

Bella Intima - A Bridal Charity Event

2009-04-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Patty from { 8events } will be hosting a bridal event to benefit the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. It will be a relaxed and distinct afternoon affair featuring work from top event professionals. Cards de Luxe will be there with works on display. Come and join us!

Saturday, April 18th, 2009 from 1-5pm
Allied Arts Guild
75 Arbor Road
Menlo Park, California

Registration is required at Bella Intima's website.

Una Bella Sera II: A World of Glamour

2009-03-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

Crystal Lequang from Amazae Special Events and Nicole Ha have teamed up again to host Una Bella Sera II: A World of Glamour. Last year's event was a smashing success and this year promises nothing less!

The showcase brings together exceptional and talented professional to create an event with the latest trends, tabletop designs, exquisite floral work and much much more. The ultimate goal is to inspire! So come join us!

Sunday, April 5th, 2009 from 5-9PM
The Merchants Exchange Building (Julia Morgan Ballroom)
465 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94104

Space is limited and registration is required at Una Bella Sera's website.

Postage Increase on May 11

2009-03-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

The post office have done it again! They will increase the first-class letter rates to $.44 for the first ounce, and postcards will be $.28. Please take note of this when planning for your invitations and response.

Additional new rates can be found at the USPS website or here.

I just hope they come out with pretty stamps or custom-designed stamps is always a nice and fun option.

Huckleberry Karen Designs D.I.Y. Workshop

2009-02-27T10:23:00.000-08:00

My friend, Karen, from { Huckleberry Karen Designs } is hosting a floral DIY workshop to give brides some tips and pointers on creating their own personal flowers. It promises to be a hands-on experience with a wealth of knowledge.

Date: Sunday, March 29, 2009
Time: 10am - 12:30pm
Location: Fort Mason in San Francisco, CA
Cost: $75 per person (group discounts available - please inquire)
Space is limited!

For more details or to register, you can email Karen at huckleberrykarendesigns@gmail.com.

And the award goes to...

2009-02-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

Noelle and Alberto for pulling together a very classy movie-themed wedding worthy of being an Oscar party in and of itself. It resonate old Hollywood elegance with the glitz, lights, stars and a red carpet too! And see the really awesome cake! The film strip is so very creatively done and the feathers add a perfect touch. The beautiful photos are by { Heidi Huber }.

venue: The Lodge at Sonoma
photography: Heidi Huber Photography
event coordinators: Natalie and Lea of Simply Sparkling Events
floral designer: Nicole Ha
rentals: Wine Country Party Rentals
lighting: Elle Music & Events
cake: Glass Slipper Gourmet
stationery: Cards de Luxe

A's Baseball Wedding

2009-02-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

Chris and Charlene dared to be different and infused their favorite sport, baseball, into their modern classic wedding. Not too much, but just enough to keep the groom happy and adore the guests with their whimical humor. We used stationeries to bring most of the baseball theme to life. See if you can spot them in the photos below...which was so graciously shared by the husband-and-wife team of { Lisa + James }.

To top it off, guests were treated to a half-time performance so cleverly arranged by the ever-so-talented Michelle at { MB Weddign Designs & Events }. Amazing! And so brave... no nets in place....

venues: The Cathedral of St. Mary and San Francisco Design Center
photography: Photography by Lisa + James
event planner: Michelle Barrionuevo-Mazzini of MB Wedding Designs & Events
floral design: Passiflora Designs
cake: Schubert's Bakery
makeup: Sherrie Long
cinematography: Andrew Hsu of Studio MSV
entertainment: Trapeze World

Chris and Charlene's wedding was featured in the 2009 winter issue of Today's Bride. You can read all about their planning in their real wedding feature.

Guests autographed their wishes on baseballs - which the groom will box and keep beside his baseball collection.

Thank you, Lisa + James, for sharing these beautiful photos with us!

Lovely Details 2009

2009-02-01T10:15:00.000-08:00

Can't believe it's already February! { Bellissima Vita Weddings } and
{ Huckleberry Karen Designs } will be hosting their annual Lovely Details bridal event in 3 weeks. We will be showing our stationeries there so come by and stop at our table to say hello. Details are in the flyer above or on the website. Hope to see you there!

Marie and John

2009-01-28T12:08:00.000-08:00

Let's start off the new year with passion and a couple that has love writen all over them. Marie and John is one of my most memorable and fun couples of 2008. Marie is so bubbly and full of giggles and excitement in planning her marriage to John.

There is a sense of youthful love when they are together, in their laughter, and in their glances...yet, knowing. It was like they just met yesterday and fell in love. Little did I know...they have been keeping that spark alive for 10+ years!

You can just feel the love and passion between them in the most gorgeous photos ever...by our very own Bay Area favorite, Jennifer Skog.

venues: St. Joseph Cathedral Basilica and The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose
photographer: Jennifer Skog
floral design: Anne Mendenhall Flowers

Awesome shoes! Marie, you should have brought them over to show me!

Love the way they look at each other... you can just feel the joy and love

This is so cute. I never knew John can bust the moves. :)

Welcome 2009!

2009-01-26T11:57:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! I wish everyone a merry, merry new year and hope you had a great start to 2009. Today is also the Lunar New Year.... with so many new beginnings (albeit a new presidential era), there is a fresh sense of hope and excitement in the air.

Wishing you a fabu-luxe 2009....

Romance in Wine Country

2008-11-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

We are so elated that many of our 2008 couples are married! The photos are rolling in and we have a back-log of wonderful weddings to show. First up... romance in wine country.

We love Jamie and Charles's invitations and now we are in love with their romantic, serene Napa Valley wedding - set in the courtyard of a cottage inn. The color palette is soft and natural, perfect against the vineyards and mountainous backdrop.

ceremony & reception venue: The Harvest Inn
photographer: Ken Viale
wedding day coordinator: Bellissima Vita
floral design: Huckleberry Karen Designs
caterer: Elaine Bell

Tidying Shop means Free Samples!

2008-11-08T15:48:00.000-08:00

Wedding season is slowing down so it's time for us to do some housekeeping. We have a pile of overprints or slightly imperfect invitations from this and previous years' work. Instead of throwing them out, I am offering free sample packs for the first 20 couples who email me.

Email me at: samples at cardsdeluxe dot com
Include your name and address
Wedding date
Any particular designs (from my portfolio), colors or theme that you would like me to include in the packet (provided that sample is available)
How did you hear about our blog? (it'll be nice to know)

This is a great way to check out our work, quality and paper samples (especially if you are not local)!

Stunning Tiffany Blue and Red

2008-11-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! I just saw some photos from Jennifer and Michael's gorgeous wedding at Rancho Las Lomas. They are one of our summer-wed couple whom we featured their invitation in an earlier post. Their wedding is definitely full of eye-candy with great designs and details created by Jennifer herself and event planner Courtney from { Joyful Weddings and Events }.

photography: Chenin of Boutwell Studio
event planning: Courtney from Joyful Weddings and Events
floral design: Flower Allie
linens: Fusion Linens
cake: Great Dane Bakery

Blossoms and Butterflies

2008-10-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

This invitation set is exta special... because it is designed for my very good and long-time friend, Linda. I've known Linda since my grade school years (and probably much earlier, since she is quite a few years younger). Growing up... our families knew each other and I went to school with her sisters (from grade school to high school). We lived a few streets apart and her mom frequently invited us over to play and eat. It is nostalgic just thinking about the good ole days....

Linda asked me to design an invitation with butterflies and cherry blossoms. With that in mind, we designed a nifty accordion-style invitation where butterflies played and fluttered in a garden scene of cherry blossoms. Each panel was devoted to information guests needed to know about the event. We kept it modern and casually elegant (to mirror the gallery venue) with whimsical touches to reflect the bubbly love and personalities of Linda and Kohei.

We are so happy for Linda! And we will be celebrating with her next month.

Linda, thanks for the honor you have given me to design your wedding stationery!

Offset printed in deep cranberry and tangerine orange (which I love!) on textured warm white.

CDL at The Wedding Salon

2008-09-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

We were not physically present at { The Wedding Salon } event yesterday in L.A. (we wish we were!), but some of our work was. From what I hear, it was a blast with some of L.A.'s finest event professionals.

We are honored that Betty at { Type A Planning } invited us to contribute our stationery to showcase on her theme table. She did a fabulous job designing a modern table inspired by the black and white paisley print linen with soft and bold touches of pink. The stationery on the table is one of our newest and most popular design this year.

We thank Betty for the opportunity to work together, and congrats on a successful show and well-designed booth!

Photos courtesy of { Henry Chen Photography }

Elizabeth Ann Designs Library

2008-08-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

I was on { Elizabeth Ann Designs } yesterday, and was surprised (and excited!) to learn that { Cards de Luxe } is listed as their "Blog of the Week". I'm not a very good or consistent blogger, so it's encouraging when I get the slightest mention or when prospective clients note that they have read/found my blog. Thank you very much, Rebekah and Ami, for making my day (week)!

I have been an avid reader of Elizabeth Ann Designs ever since I met Rebekah as a Christmas card swap buddy last year. Her (and Ami's) blog is fun-to-read, resourceful and full of inspirations. Recently, they officially launched the
{ Elizabeth Ann Designs Library } which houses an exhaustive directory of event professionals. We are honored to make the list!

If you are planning a wedding or event, Elizabeth Ann Designs is a must-read and it is addicting.

Aqua & Red Rose

2008-08-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

Like the Olympics, we are breaking records with three posts in one week! That's because we have lots to share....

We delivered this cool aqua and poppy red invitation back in the spring for a summer wedding. I have always adored this color scheme as it gives off a fresh, light and whimsy feel... perfect for a casual elegant, breezy early summer wedding.

And just to show you how fun and deligthful it can get, see the ever-so-popular { snippet & ink } aqua-poppy inspiration board below. The airiness of it makes me think of cotton candy...mmmm... Click on board for credits.

Cross Cultural Celebration

2008-08-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

One of our earlier weddings this year... Cristina and Amit planned an intimate celebration blending three cultures between two families. From the invitations to the reception and all the little details in between fused together elements from their Chinese, Brazilian and Indian heritage and customs.

The wedding color was red - an auspicious color for both Asian cultures. The invitations used a paisley and double happiness motifs to symbolize the coming together of their respective families. The reception was a carnivorous feast in Brazilian style with meats of all kinds delivered on skewers to the tables. Wedding favors were Brazilian-imported chocolate bonbons. And I love Cristina's turquoise and pink lehnga.

Our photographer friend, Calvin from { fisheye photos }, captured these striking and vibrant images of a truly unique wedding.

Forgarty Winery

2008-08-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

While we were on vacation, one of our couples got married on the 4th of July with an elegant BBQ reception at Fogarty Winery. I've been to a wedding at Fogarty Winery, and the panoramic view of the SF Bay area is captivating for a wedding backdrop. Now to mention, their Gewürztraminer is one of my favorite.

Our friend, Lisa from { Belissima Vista Weddings }, day-coordinated this wedding and took the following photos. Flowers by { Nicole Ha } and cupcakes from { Love at First Bite }. { Cards de Luxe } created the vineyard-inspired programs, menus, table numbers and escort favor tags.

Having a caricature artist { Doug Shannon } is a fun addition and treat for the guests. I've never had a caricature of myself.

As Seen In... The Knot

2008-07-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

We came back from vacation to exciting news that one of our weddings is featured in the Northern California's The Knot magazine. It just seemed like yesterday we were working on Joy's complete stationery suite. See the spread below to see what we've created for her stunning wedding.

We're off cruising!

2008-07-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

We're packed and we're off for a couple of weeks! My family and I never went on a cruise before so we are giving it a try. We will be in Seattle for a couple of days and then our ship departs for Alaska! We will be completely disconnected (no emails or phone calls) so bear with our absence. When we return on July 14, we'll be recharged and ready to work on your invitations and day-of stationery.

Simply Orchid

2008-06-22T14:15:00.000-07:00

We delivered this simply delightful orchid invitation last month and are excited to share them with you. The color palette of huckleberry (purple) and chartreuse is a first for us, and we love it! It's vibrant and subdued at the same time alluding a casual elegance.

Inspired by her wedding flowers, Lani knew she wanted to incorporate orchids on her invitations. A week later, she gave us this beautiful, hand-drawn orchid which we ended up using as the centerpiece to her invitations. It's definitely a special invitation for you and your guests when you can incorporate something personal like this.

Una Bella Sera at Casa Real

2008-06-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

Over a month ago, we were invited to participate in the extraordinary and lavish Una Bella Sera design showcase at Casa Real, hosted by Nicole Ha and Amazae Special Events. Everything was so beautiful and creatively inspiring!

We had a great time meeting new friends, seeing some of my clients, and indulging on a table full of desserts. It was just a great swanky party and thanks, Nicole, for inviting me to join you!

I didn't bring a camera...but who needs to when some of the most talented and renowned photographers are there to capture the shots. Visit their blogs for more fabulous photos!

From Augie Chang's Blog

These plexiglass invitations were created by CDL especially for the event.

From Jennifer Skog's Blog

From HyStudio's Blog

We'll look forward to working on the show next year!

Custom Postage

2008-05-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Early this month, USPS raised the domestic postage to $.42 for 1-oz first class mail. Each ounce over is $.17 each. However, with the rate increase the new stamps are not out until mid-late June. For this reason, a couple of my clients have done custom stamps from Zazzle. It was fun to create coordinated stamps which hinted at the contents inside the envelope.

Here are a couple which are available for sale on Zazzle designed by us:

If your budget can include custom stamps, it is really a fun way to personalize the little details. If you'd like for us to create something for you, send us an email.

We got thru May...

2008-05-31T10:14:00.000-07:00

Whew! We did it! We got thru May and can have a breather now. May was our busiest month this year (for all the summer weddings) and our most productive. We delivered a total of 6 sets of invitation, and 2 are at the press! Minus one, we are finished with August weddings (until day-of stationery starts). :-) We'll have lots to share once I take photos of some of our new designs, and we got some great ones!

Also, a shout-out of "Congratulations" to two of our May brides and grooms - Cristina and Amit, Beverly and Muir! I hope your day was wonderful and a sweet one.

Finally, a reminder to autumn and winter couples, now is the time to shop for your custom wedding invitations. Our calendar can still accommodate a few more design work. So, send us an email and inspire us with your story!

French-Country versus Classy Country Club

2008-05-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

We made a couple of deliveries last week and they are our new favorites. We have to restrain ourselves from sharing too much as these are soon-to-be on their way to their guests. We hope they will appreciate them as much as we had in designing them.

We absolutely adored Jamie's inspirations for a romantic French-country vineyard wedding invitation. Soft, rustic, ironwork/gates, flourishes, monogram, french-country, romantic, vintage, shabby chic are some of the descriptions Jamie dropped on us at our first meeting. And we couldn't wait to get started. We are also so excited because this set was letterpressed! We can't stop running our fingers over them...love the feel of crisp and deep impressions on fluffy cotton paper. These are letterpressed on 300 gsm Crane's Lettra cardstock in slate blue and chocolate brown.

This next set is a bold and striking contrast to the soft and romantic. Who knew pairing royal purple and black would make such a statement?! Jennifer came to us knowing she wanted to incorporate a flourish motif on her wedding invitations. We had the perfect one and paired it with a calligraphic cartouch monogram for a classy country club affair.

Una Bella Sera

2008-04-05T00:12:00.000-07:00

Yay! We just launched the Una Bella Sera website this week! We are excited and delighted to be participating in this year's Una Bella Sera event.

Una Bella Sera is "a beautiful evening" designed by the extraordinary talents of floral designer Nicole from Nicole Ha Designs and Crystal at Amazae Events. The event will be held at the brand spanking new Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery on April 27 from 4-7pm. It will feature lavish floral designs, exquisite details, bubbly champagne, food, fun, music and much much more.

Come by and say "hi" and visit the awesome works of some of Bay Area's finest event professionals. Visit the website for participating vendors, directions and registration! Registration is required and space is limited.

I can't wait to check out the new venue myself!

Lights, Camera, Shoot!

2008-03-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, my great photographer friend, Calvin from Fisheye Photography, helped me take some photos for my to-be-launched website. It definitely took us a while to figure out the best setting and lighting since we don't have much experience in shooting products. But I'm happy with the results and the photos came out lovely. I am quite excited about them so here is a sneak peek!

Today is Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Just a sweet and simple note to wish you a wonderful day with your loved ones. It's a great day to share the love...

(cute greeting card by www.chewingthecud.com)

Lovely Details

2008-02-05T17:05:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at the Lovely Details Showcase on Sunday at the Fort Mason! The turnout was more than what we expected despite the Super Bowl and erratic weather. So we are really happy for it's success. A great, big thank you to Lisa of Bellissima Vita Weddings and Karen from Huckleberry Karen Designs who planned and organized the event for us!

The event was an intimate affair for both the wedding couples and the vendors. I got to meet some really great talents in the industry! And couples got to see many "lovely details" amongst the four tablescape arrangements along with creative ways to display favours and escort cards. All in all, it was a fun event to share ideas, meet people, and spend a Sunday afternoon.

If you missed the event, here are some wonderful "lovely details" photos taken by Ed Pingol Photography.

Table design: Bellissima Vita Wedding
Floral design: Huckleberry Karen Designs
Favours: Precious Memories
Stationery: Cards de Luxe

Beautiful couture invitations by Studio AYT.

Check out the Lovely Details blog for more great ideas to personalize your wedding day!

Lovely Details Bridal Show

2008-01-03T17:49:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and there are new plans in the works for Cards de Luxe in 2008!

We are currently working with a fabulous web design boutique to design and build our new website. I am so excited to finally have a website to showcase our stationery! Our website is slated for a March launch so look out for it!

I am also so delighted to participate in the first-ever Lovely Details Bridal Show, hosted by two talented ladies: Lisa of Bellissima Vita and Karen of Huckleberry Karen Designs!

The show will feature four themed tablescapes showing you how to bring all the elements of flowers, stationery, linen, and tableware together for an exquisite design. I also hear there will be a gocco demonstration - the recently most talked about DIY printing technique - by special guest, Miss Penguin from Wedding Bee!

So, clear your calendar and come by and say "Hi". (Click on image below for all the details)

A Sweet and Romantic Garden Wedding

2007-12-17T19:34:00.000-08:00

Cards de Luxe briefly worked with Sharlene during the summer when she enlisted our service to die cut her wedding program fans. Recently, I was elated and surprised to find her wedding photos on HyStudio's blog (a great blog, btw).

Sharlene did a fantastic job designing her programs along with all the wonderful details of that day. Sharlene is one smart gal to hire two of my favorite professionals - Nicole Ha (florist) and Hy (photographer)! Let the details and photos speak for themselves...

Sharlene and Jason exchanged their vows in front of the sundial, a special place in their hearts.

Jason proposed to Sharlene at Yosemite National Park (see the cake).

photos courtesy of HyStudio
If you haven't already, you should definitely go check out HyStudio's blog... there is just so much eye-candy on there! Hy takes exceptional, artistic photography and is very well-respected.

Ceremony: Shakespeare Garden, Golden Gate Park
Reception: Hong Kong Flower Lounge, Millbrae
Florist: Nicole Ha Designs
Cake: Not Just Cheese Cakes

It's All in the Details...

2007-11-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Rinarisa sent me some photos from her wedding and I am so blown away with the impeccable details she put into it. Everything went so well and elegantly together but not over the top. She used flowers and tablewares to add burst of colors against the lush green backdrop of the Wolffer Estate Vineyards in The Hamptons, but still managed to keep it organic and earthy.

The details couldn't present itself so beautifully without the talent and instinct of photographer, Joshua Freiwald, who captured these breath-taking photos.

I applaud Rinarisa for going out of the norm and showing us that multi-color weddings do work and are beautiful!

I so love and want those pink fluted champagne glasses... it's so pretty! I also like the use of grapes in the centerpieces. Pretty purse too!

Cards de Luxe helped Rina to create her reception and ceremony stationery.

How adorable. . . escort cards on artichokes.

And finally... a lovely photo of the savvy bride with her new husband, Ian. Congratulations to the both of you!

Joy + Keith

2007-11-06T13:09:00.000-08:00

Recently, renowned photographer, Julie Mikos, posted some teaser photos from Joy and Keith's wedding. The photos are classic and speaks for themselves! Julie's photography is praised for her ability to tell a story through images. Here is Joy and Keith's story on their wedding day...

The reception was at the Green Room at the War Memorial Building in SF. Lisa of Bellissima Vita Weddings was the coordinator. A Simple Ceremony created the floral centerpieces. And Cards de Luxe designed a coordinated stationery suite for Joy from invitations, day-of stationery, down to the final thank you notecards.

It is not easy to pull off a red and green wedding without it looking like Christmas. And Joy did a fabulous job designing her wedding! Joy was such a "joy" to collaborate with on her wedding stationery. I will miss your frequent emails! Congratulations, Joy and Keith!

A Historic Landmark Wedding

2007-10-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

Having spent 4 years in Berkeley during college, I was totally oblivious to what was nearby. I didn't even know the Berkeley City Club, an architectural gem designed by Julia Morgan, was only a few walking blocks away. This historic landmark was the site for Mary and Bill's traditional and elegant wedding this weekend.

I couldn't pass up the chance to visit such a site and see how Mary's talented vendors pull it all together. I was not disappointed I made the drive!

The Venue: Berkeley City Club, California
Event Coordinator: Simply Sparkling Events
Floral Design: Nicole Ha
Stationery: Cards de Luxe
Cake: La Farine
Favors: Cosmic Chocolates

Congratulations, Mary and Bill! We can't wait to see your professional photos!

Vineyard Invitation

2007-09-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

Another one of our favorite couple is getting married: Jeryl and David. They planned a heart-warming event celebrating their love and the love of family and friends. They are definitely a well-loved couple as over 200 guests will be attending their wedding at the Wente Vineyards.

Jeryl was a blast to work with because she is so vibrant and full of personality and excitement. For their wedding invitation, we took inspiration from the estate vineyard and reflected it onto paper - from the use of colors to the grapevine motif. This wedding collection looks like it was just plucked from wine country itself!

Congratulations, Jeryl and David! I can’t wait to see photos from your event.

Jeryl's comments: "Your invitations were a huge hit! Everyone loves them! They don't want to send the response card because they want to keep the whole set together!. Thank you again for doing an amazing job!"

Olive Branch Invitation

2007-09-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

I must confess... if I were to plan a destination wedding, my dream place would be in Tuscany surrounded by rustic colors, in the country, in an estate, villa or farm,....

But for this wedding couple, my dream is their reality. Karen and Lorenzo will be married at the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy followed by celebration at Podere Il Castello, Le Sieci. Their event will be an intimate affair for the family and close friends.

Originally, this olive branch invitation concept was for another client. But when Karen saw it, it was the perfect invitation for her Tuscan wedding. Best wishes, Karen and Lorenzo!

Bamboo Motif Invitation

2007-09-08T16:32:00.000-07:00

This is a record for CDL. It's the fourth consecutive weekend where a CDL bride and groom are getting married! Congratulations to Keri and Darren! They are getting married today at Trinity Episcopal Church followed by a reception at the Merchants Exchange Building in San Francisco.

Keri and Darren are a relaxed and casual couple, and they wanted to reflect that style in their wedding invitations with an Asian flair. The bamboo motif gave their invitation suite the perfect combination of simplicity with a modern-Asian twist. The complete set was offset printed in burgundy on off-white textured paper.

Congratulations, Joy and Keith!

2007-09-02T23:38:00.000-07:00

This is the third consecutive weekend where a CDL bride is getting married! Congratulations to Joy and Keith! They will be tying the knot today at Old St. Mary's Cathedral followed by a celebration at The Green Room in the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center.

Joy made sure their wedding celebration was one not to be missed! Joy wanted her invitations to speak vibrant elegance with a touch of refined glamour. This was achieved with bold colors and patterns printed on luxurious shimmery paper. An invitation that speaks for itself!

All photo credits: Cards de Luxe

New Invitation Preview!

2007-08-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

Ssshhh! Here's a preview of a new invitation we are about to send out for our bride, Mary. The guests will receive these lovely babies in a couple days.

Photo credit: Cards de Luxe
An update from Mary after the invitations went out:
"I got the invitations last night. They are beautiful! I had twenty calls last night from friends telling me how much they loved them. Thank you so much."

Congratulations, Stephanie and Jeffrey!

2007-08-25T11:48:00.000-07:00

Another one of my bride is getting married today! I can't believe Stephanie and Jeffrey's wedding day is finally here after working with Stephanie for the past 6 months. They are to be married at the Dolce Hayes Mansion in San Jose.

Stephanie gets my praise for being the most organized and well-planned bride ever! This definitely makes my job a lot easier. Stephanie came to me with the concept of using Japanese Chiyogami blossom paper as the main focus for her wedding invitations. The result was Asian-inspired grace and elegance.

Image from Cards de Luxe

Congratulations, Diem and Austin!

2007-08-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

Today, I got to show up at a wedding, like other vendors do, and help setup for Diem and Austin's wedding. The wedding was hosted at the nearby Hotel Valencia on Santana Row.

Diem and Austin choose the theme of Travel for their wedding because it is their favorite pasttime. As well, many of the places they have traveled to created special memories in their lives together.

Diem used stationery as a way to draw out her theme. Cards de Luxe created escort cards from heart-shaped luggage tags, passport programs, personalized boarding pass placecards, and destination table names.

Images from Kelvin Khoo

Surely, this wedding was a fun and exciting journey for all!

Angela + Chris

2007-07-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

I love it when couples share their wedding photos! Because as a stationer, we don't get to participate on the day-of like most vendors do. So, photos are the only way we get to share in the couple's happiness.

Angela and Chris married on June 9 at the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, followed by a reception at The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose. I first met Angela and Chris at a bridal showcase and they were the lucky winner of my raffle prize. They are really a sweet and charming couple! And their wedding reflects just that: pure sweet tenderness!

I love how the cake looks almost like a silk satin gown with fabric-covered buttons and colored satin sash. Fushia blossoms and orange-colored hummingbirds adored their invitations and table cards. Chris and Angela are quite the youth-at-heart couple by indulging their guests with cotton candy and playful ice sculptures. I love it!

Images from Geoff White.

Congratulations, Angela and Chris! Your wedding sure looks fun!

Congratulations, Jennel and Kharl!

2007-07-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Jennel and Kharl tied the knot at the Walnut Creek Marriott on July 14! Jennel kept her wedding simply elegant by thoughtfully blending in her colors with their monogram.

The coordinators were Lea and Natalie of Simply Sparkling Events, and floral designs were by the highly in-demand Nicole Ha. Glass Slipper Gourmet created the simply beautiful and delectable wedding cake. And Cards de Luxe designed the wedding program and escort cards. The event was sure to be a success as Jennel surrounded herself with a group of very talented vendors!

Images from Simply Sparkling Events.

Orlena + Justin

2007-07-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

Orlena and Justin's wedding is one of those weddings where I can't wait to see their wedding photos! It is always exciting to see how all the carefully planned details come together on the wedding day.

Orlena and Justin were married on May 27 at St. Cecilia Church, followed by a formal reception at the Mark Hopkins in San Francisco. The wedding was glamorous, romantic and timeless as captured by Gene Higa, a very talented and in-demand Bay Area wedding photographer!

Orlena choose to use coordinated stationery throughout her wedding - from invitations to programs, menus, escort cards, favor tag and thank you notes. All stationeries were designed in Orlena's favorite colors - green and aubergine - and used a paisley motif as the centerpiece.

Congratulations, Orlena and Justin! You are a beautiful couple!

Images from Gene Higa.

Hello!

2007-07-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to The Blog at CDL!

I hope The Blog at CDL is a place where I can showcase new stationery design work as well as some of the beautiful weddings of my clients.

It won't be limited to just that so you'll have to check back often to see what's new and what's happening at Cards de Luxe!

Thanks for stopping by....